Listed below are resources designed to improve the quality of child care and to support families.

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AccreditationsNationally accredited child care programs have gone through a rigorous process of assessment and review by national accrediting programs including NAEYC, NCCA or NSACA. The Child Development Division pays the fees related to the accreditation process, a bonus for obtaining the accreditation and a higher child care subsidy reimbursement rate. Families who choose accredited child care programs may be eligible for special tax benefits.

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Course CalendarLook here for a searchable list of workshops, classes and presentations about how best to work with young children, school age children and their families. Classes are around the state, and are often low cost or free. These learning opportunities can meet professional development requirements and many are also open to parents and other adult caregivers.

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Credentials and CertificatesIndividual child care providers are encouraged to obtain national and industry recognized professional credentials. The CDA and CCP credentials and the Certificate of Completion from the Child Care Apprenticeship Program all are nationally recognized and include direct observations of competency. Families and children both benefit from the increased education and the competency of providers who have made this clear professional commitment to their work.

GrantsA variety of grants to improve the quality of Registered Family Child Care Homes and Licensed Centers are available. Families can encourage and support their child care provider in applying for grants. Grants provide resources to purchase equipment and contribute to the education of the child care provider.

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The Child Care Consumer Concern Line1-800-649-2642 is available to the public and provides information about child care regulations and regulatory histories of individual child care programs. Child Care Subsidy regulations determine how the Child Development Division and community agencies manage the subsidy program. The child care subsidy program provides financial assistance to help families pay for child care. Generally, eligibility is determined by the family's income and need for child care.